Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by a mycobacterium that is spread from a person who has active infectious TB on to others usually by airborne transmission. This organism infects the lungs or other parts of the body including the spine, brain, kidneys, heart, skin or other organs. Persons who are diagnosed with active pulmonary TB (lung disease) develop cough, fever, night sweats, weight loss and weakness. Numerous other symptoms are associated with active TB disease of other body sites. Diagnosis of active TB is completed by a physician, and laboratory tests, and treatment is prescribed that can cure TB disease.

The TB germ often does not result in active disease soon after exposure, but may reside in the body inactive for many months or years. This is called Latent TB Infection (LTBI), and produces no symptoms, nor can the TB germ spread to others in this phase. However, since active disease may develop in the future, which causes illness, and can result in the spread of TB to others, it is important to identify Latent TB, and treatment can be prescribed to prevent development of active disease. If there has been any risk of exposure to TB, a skin test can be obtained to detect latent infection. This is performed by a small injection in the lower arm, and the test site must be evaluated for a reaction by the practitioner 48 hours following the administration of the skin test.

The rate of TB has been greatly reduced in the U.S., but some groups remain at risk and should seek a skin test to determine their TB status. Persons who are at greater risk include those who are foreign born where exposure may have occurred in their native country. Also, anyone who has resided or spent time in communities or a country where TB is prevalent are at increased risk of TB.

Anyone who is notified that they have been exposed to TB should be tested.

Skin testing is offered at the department. Please call 828-3358 for an appointment or if you have any questions about Tuberculosis.

The Columbia County Department of Health is located down on the first floor at 325 Columbia Street in Hudson, NY.